The operating model should allow for all researchers to be given an equal opportunity to bid for research grants and the success of the grants should be based upon merit, the quality of the application, and the ability to conduct the research to achieve the best outcomes.  

DPOs see the research gaps and are frustrated that the advocacy sector holds an enormous amount of knowledge that isn’t utilized because we don’t have research resources or adequate funding. 

DPOs were inundated with approaches from universities when the NDRP funding round opened. Could NDRP be a conduit between universities and disability organisations?

Maybe develop guidelines for universities about respectful engagement with DPOs and for working with disadvantaged communities: women, CALD, refugees, homeless people, a guide to writing in plain language

DPOs want to lead research, not just participate. We are asked all the time to be involved by academics after the questions have been developed. We need the academics to support us not vice versa.

Incorporating intersectionality in research: intersectionality has an added cost that’s not taken into account, eg. the cost of translation etc.

DPOs would like an authentic commitment from universities that they will not expect partnerships for free. People with disability are also saying they are tired of providing their knowledge, experience and narratives to universities for free. There is sometimes a budget for the people with intellectual disability but not for supports and preparation involved.

DPOs would like some way to know which researchers work on which topics. 

Service providers also asked about having a clear line of sight about opportunities to participate in research (as compared to responding to invitations from universities on an ad hoc basis)